Spritz cookies are a holiday favorite, known for their delicate texture, buttery flavor, and the endless shapes you can create using a cookie press. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a festive party, or just indulging in some holiday fun, this spritz cookie recipe is exactly what you need.
What Are Spritz Cookies?
Spritz cookies originate from Scandinavia, and the name comes from the German word “spritzen,” meaning “to squirt,” which refers to how the dough is pushed through a cookie press. The result? Intricate and festive designs that look almost too good to eat—but trust us, you’ll want to devour them. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ultimate spritz cookie recipe, complete with tips for getting the perfect shape and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Spritz Cookie Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your pantry.
- Customizable: Add food coloring, sprinkles, or flavor extracts for endless variations.
- Fun for All Ages: Using a cookie press to make unique shapes is a joy for kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for the Perfect Spritz Cookie Recipe
To achieve the ideal balance of buttery richness and melt-in-your-mouth texture, you’ll need the following:
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (or almond extract for a twist)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
Optional Additions:
- Food coloring for a festive touch
- Decorative sprinkles or sugar crystals for added flair
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes per batch
- Yield: About 5 dozen cookies (depending on size and shape)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Spritz Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your spritz cookies.
Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. If you’re using almond extract or food coloring, add it at this stage.
Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the flour, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure your spritz cookies stay tender.
Step 5: Prepare the Cookie Press
Fill your cookie press with the dough and choose your desired shape. Press the cookies directly onto the prepared baking sheets. The dough should adhere to the sheet without spreading excessively.
Step 6: Decorate (Optional)
Sprinkle your cookies with decorative sugar or sprinkles before baking for a festive touch.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Spritz Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter ensures a smooth dough that’s easy to press.
- Chill Your Baking Sheets: If your dough isn’t sticking to the sheet, try chilling the baking sheets beforehand.
- Experiment with Shapes: Most cookie presses come with multiple disks. Have fun trying out different designs!
- Store Properly: Keep your spritz cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. They’ll last up to two weeks at room temperature.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 60
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 0.5g
Variations on the Classic Spritz Cookie Recipe
- Chocolate Spritz Cookies: Substitute ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
- Citrus Spritz Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough.
- Gluten-Free Spritz Cookies: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make Spritz Cookies Without a Cookie Press?
Yes! You can pipe the dough using a piping bag fitted with a large star tip or simply roll the dough into small balls and flatten them slightly with a fork.
Why Is My Dough Too Sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before using it in the cookie press.
Can I Freeze Spritz Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough or the baked cookies. For unbaked dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. For baked cookies, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container.
Final Thoughts
This spritz cookie recipe is a holiday must-have that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With a buttery base and endless customization options, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you to success. So grab your cookie press, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake some festive magic. Your search for the ultimate spritz cookie recipe ends here!